Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs are juicy and packed with flavor! These little bites are made with tender meatballs, zesty ranch seasoning, and pepperoncini for a tasty kick.
Cooking them in the crockpot makes it super easy! Just pop everything in, walk away, and let the magic happen. Who doesn’t love a meal that practically cooks itself? 🥳
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Frozen Meatballs: Using frozen meatballs makes this dish super easy. I prefer a mix of beef and pork for a juicier flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey or chicken meatballs work well too!
Ranch Seasoning Mix: This gives a boost of flavor and creaminess. You can use homemade ranch seasoning if you’re feeling adventurous or find it hard to get the packet at your local store.
Au Jus Gravy Mix: It adds great depth to the sauce. If you need a substitute, beef broth or homemade gravy can provide a nice flavor base. Just adjust the amounts for seasoning.
Unsalted Butter: This adds richness to the sauce. If you’re looking to cut calories, you could use less butter or a lighter substitute like olive oil, but butter does enrich the overall taste.
Pepperoncini Peppers: They provide a nice tangy kick. If you prefer milder flavors, you can skip the peppers or replace them with banana peppers. Just taste as you go!
How Do I Make Sure My Meatballs Are Perfectly Tender?
A key part of this recipe is getting those meatballs just right in the crockpot. Cooking them low and slow helps them absorb all the delicious flavors. Here’s how to ensure they’re tender:
- Always use frozen meatballs—they hold their shape better during cooking.
- Don’t overcrowd the crockpot; ensure there’s room for heat circulation.
- Cooking on low for longer allows for a better blend of flavors, so try and be patient if you can!
- Before serving, stir gently to coat them without breaking them apart.
Enjoy your cooking! These meatballs make for a delightful meal or crowd-pleasing appetizer. 🌟
How to Make Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs frozen meatballs (beef or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 packet (1 oz) ranch seasoning mix
- 1 packet (1 oz) au jus gravy mix
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter (1 stick)
- 6-8 pepperoncini peppers
- Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and then cooks in the crockpot for 4-6 hours on low or 2-3 hours on high. So, you can set it in the morning and have a tasty meal ready by dinner time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Meatballs:
Start by placing the frozen meatballs in the bottom of your crockpot. It’s super easy—no thawing needed!
2. Add Flavorings:
Next, sprinkle the ranch seasoning mix and the au jus gravy mix evenly over the meatballs. This will help infuse them with lots of flavor as they cook.
3. Add Butter:
Cut the unsalted butter into chunks and scatter them evenly over the top of the meatballs. The butter will melt and create a delicious, rich sauce.
4. Toss in the Peppers:
Now, add the pepperoncini peppers on top of everything. If you like a little extra tang, feel free to splash in some of the pepperoncini juice as well!
5. Cook:
Cover the crockpot with the lid and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. You’ll know it’s done when the meatballs are heated through and super flavorful!
6. Stir Before Serving:
Once they’re cooked, give the meatballs a gentle stir to coat them in the creamy sauce. Be careful not to break them apart!
7. Garnish and Enjoy:
If you like, garnish with some chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color. Serve the meatballs warm as a tasty appetizer or a satisfying main dish!
Enjoy your Crockpot Mississippi Meatballs! They’re sure to impress everyone at the table. 🍽️
Can I Use Homemade Meatballs Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you prefer homemade meatballs, just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the crockpot. Follow the same instructions for seasoning and cooking times, as the flavors will still meld beautifully.
Can I Make This Recipe Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free meatballs and substitute the au jus gravy mix with a gluten-free variety or use beef broth thickened with cornstarch. Always check the ranch seasoning for gluten-containing ingredients as well!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat them in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or beef broth to keep it moist.
Can I Use Different Peppers?
Yes! If you’re not a fan of pepperoncini, you can swap them for banana peppers or even omit them altogether for a milder flavor. Adjust according to your taste preference!